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Crispy Chicken Queso Dunkers

crispy chicken queso dunkers - featured image

Crispy chicken strips paired with a rich, creamy homemade queso dip, perfect for Super Bowl parties and casual get-togethers. This quick and easy recipe delivers a crunchy, cheesy snack that’s a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (120 g)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs (150 g)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Vegetable or canola oil for frying
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (115 g)
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (115 g)
  • 1 cup whole milk (240 ml)
  • 2 tbsp butter (28 g)
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (16 g)
  • 1 small jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pat dry the chicken breasts. Cut into even 3-inch strips. Set aside.
  2. Set up breading stations: In one bowl, mix flour with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Dredge each chicken strip in the seasoned flour, shake off excess, dip into beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Place on a plate.
  4. Pour oil into a large skillet to about 1/2 inch depth and heat over medium-high until oil reaches about 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken strips in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
  5. To make queso dip: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook 1-2 minutes until slightly golden. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened (3-4 minutes). Lower heat and add shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in jalapeño (optional), cumin, salt, and pepper. Keep warm.

Notes

Maintain oil temperature around 350°F for best crispiness. If queso is too thick, add more milk; if too thin, cook longer to thicken. For a healthier option, bake chicken strips at 425°F for 20-25 minutes on a wire rack, flipping halfway. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded. Store leftovers in airtight containers; reheat chicken in oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken, queso dip, Super Bowl snacks, chicken dunkers, party food, fried chicken strips, cheesy dip